East African countries are stepping up efforts to build a more resilient regional health economy through deeper collaboration, investment and stronger healthcare systems, with the agenda set to dominate discussions at the 13th East African Healthcare Federation (EAHF) Conference and International Health Exhibition in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The conference, scheduled for August 21–23, 2026, will bring together policymakers, healthcare providers, investors, development partners, researchers and innovators to explore strategies for strengthening healthcare delivery and expanding the region's health economy.
Preparations for the summit featured prominently during a meeting on Monday between Tanzania's Deputy Minister for Health, Dr Florence Samizi, representing Health Minister Mohamed Mchengerwa, and an Ethiopian delegation led by Dr Markos Feleke Haile, President of the Ethiopian Healthcare Federation (EHF) and Chairperson of the East African Healthcare Federation (EAHF).
The delegation was in Tanzania to formally invite the country to participate in the regional event.
Dr Samizi said Tanzania remains committed to regional initiatives aimed at improving healthcare systems, promoting investment in the health sector and expanding the production of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment.
She noted that the conference would provide Tanzania with an opportunity to showcase reforms and achievements in its health sector, exchange experiences with regional partners and attract investment that could strengthen healthcare services while supporting economic growth.
"The conference comes at a critical time as East African countries continue to strengthen their health systems following lessons learned from recent global health emergencies," Dr Samizi said.
Held under the theme "Resilience: Building the East African Health Economy," the conference is expected to focus on building sustainable healthcare systems capable of responding to future health challenges while improving access to quality medical services.
Dr Samizi said the event would provide a platform for governments, the private sector, development partners, academic institutions and innovators to discuss practical solutions for enhancing healthcare delivery and accelerating regional integration in the health sector.
Dr Haile said the conference is expected to attract senior government officials, private sector leaders, healthcare professionals, investors and development partners from across East Africa and beyond.
He said discussions would focus on strengthening regional health systems, promoting innovation and investment, and advancing partnerships that can support the long-term growth of the East African health economy.
The annual conference is expected to reinforce regional efforts to make healthcare systems more resilient while positioning the health sector as a key driver of sustainable economic development across East Africa.
